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Ape Initiative

Science. Education. Outreach.

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What is Ape Initiative?

Ape Initiative is the only research facility in the world dedicated to the study and conservation of the species most closely related to humans – the endangered bonobo. Ape Initiative is a federally-recognized non-profit organization - 501(c)(3) - and accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) as an Accredited Related Facility. Our programs enrich the lives of our bonobos and give us a better understanding of our place in the natural world. Bonobos are an endangered species of African Great Ape with as few as 15,000 - 20,000 individuals in the wild. Understanding bonobo behavior, and how they interact with one another, is critical if we are going to save them. That’s why we developed a scientifically grounded conservation education program for students of all ages. Our goal is to inspire the next generation of scientists and educators by promoting scientific literacy and environmental stewardship.

Meet the bonobos

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Bonobo welfare is our top
priority

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Our Collaborators

 
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EDUCATION ZONE

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OUR FACILITIES

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Located on 230 acres of pristine Iowa hardwood forest in Des Moines, Iowa, the Ape Initiative facilities consist of 11 indoor spaces include 5 sleeping rooms, 2 30-ft tall towers, 2 demo rooms with mounted touchscreen computers, 2 greenhouse enclosures, as well as 4 outdoor spaces - 2 mulched play-yards and 2 multi-level tunnels! We also have 2 additional outdoor enclosures underway - a new play-yard is under construction (that we hope to make viewable from an outdoor student classroom) and plans have been drawn for a new expansive yard.